Inokom's RM300 Million Paint Shop: A Game-Changer for Malaysia's Automotive Manufacturing

Inokom Corporation Sdn Bhd has launched a new RM300 million automotive painting facility at its manufacturing plant in Kulim, Kedah, expanding its total paint shop capacity to 100,000 vehicle bodies a year. The new Paint Shop 3 (PS3) is one of parent company Sime Darby Bhd's largest manufacturing investments to date, marking a significant milestone in Malaysia's automotive manufacturing capabilities.

The facility was officially launched by Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani, underscoring the government's support for the development of the country's automotive ecosystem.

A Strategic Investment in Malaysia's Automotive Future

Inokom director Tan Sri Ben Yeoh said the investment reflected the company's continued focus on strengthening local capabilities and supporting the growth of Malaysia's automotive industry.

"Inokom has evolved alongside Malaysia's National Automotive Policy. From our beginnings as part of the nation's automotive development ambitions, we have grown into a trusted manufacturing partner for global automotive brands," Yeoh said in a statement.

"PS3 reflects our continued commitment to investing in local capabilities, technology transfer and the future growth of Malaysia's automotive industry."

The investment comes at a time when Malaysia is positioning itself as a regional automotive manufacturing hub, with increasing interest from global automakers seeking to establish or expand their presence in the country.

Technical Capabilities and Production Capacity

Inokom said the facility is designed to support up to 50,000 painted vehicle bodies annually based on a two-shift operation, at a production rate of 15 units per hour. The facility, which also has plastic parts painting capabilities, can accommodate multiple vehicle models, providing Inokom with greater flexibility to scale production and support future vehicle programmes.

Most of PS3's operations are automated, including its pre-treatment and electrodeposition line, spray booths and conveyor system. The facility is equipped with 32 painting and sealant robots, while its Cartridge Bell System allows colour changes in under 10 seconds and can support up to 27 colour variants.

The high level of automation ensures consistent quality and efficiency, while the rapid colour change capability enables production flexibility for multiple vehicle models and customer preferences.

Collaboration and Knowledge Transfer

Inokom said the development of PS3 also involved collaboration with Mazda's technical support team and engineering specialists, providing knowledge transfer, training and technical guidance to its employees. This collaboration underscores Inokom's commitment to developing local talent and capabilities, ensuring that Malaysian workers are equipped with the skills needed to operate advanced manufacturing facilities.

Managing director of Sime Motors' Assembly and Strategic Businesses Syed Ahmad Muzri Syed Faiz said the facility would expand Inokom's painting capacity and production flexibility.

"Designed with advanced automation, future waterborne paint readiness and sustainability features, PS3 positions Inokom to support future vehicle programmes while maintaining high standards of quality, efficiency and environmental responsibility," he said.

Sustainability Features

On sustainability, PS3 uses a regenerative thermal oxidiser system connected to four ovens, which Inokom said reduces carbon dioxide emissions by about 60% through the decomposition of volatile organic compounds and reuse of recovered heat.

It also incorporates a dry scrubber filtration system that eliminates water usage in spray booth operations and is designed to support a future transition to waterborne paint. These features align with global automotive industry trends toward more sustainable manufacturing practices.

A 100% Malaysian Workforce

PS3 is built and operated by a 100% Malaysian workforce, reflecting Inokom's commitment to developing local capabilities and creating employment opportunities in the region. The facility is expected to contribute to the growth of the local economy and the development of a skilled workforce in the automotive sector.

Inokom's Role in Malaysia's Automotive Industry

Inokom, a subsidiary of Sime Darby under its Motors division, assembles passenger cars, multi-utility vehicles, multi-purpose vehicles and commercial vehicles at its 200-acre manufacturing facility in Kulim. The facility serves as a contract manufacturer for several global automotive brands, including Mazda, and has established a reputation for quality and reliability.

The new paint shop expands Inokom's capabilities and positions the company to support future vehicle programmes, including potential electric vehicle production. The investment demonstrates the company's commitment to the growth of Malaysia's automotive industry and its role as a trusted manufacturing partner for global brands.

The launch of PS3 marks a significant milestone for Inokom and Malaysia's automotive industry. The investment in advanced automation, sustainability features, and capacity expansion strengthens Malaysia's position as a regional automotive manufacturing hub.

As global automakers increasingly look to diversify their supply chains and establish production facilities in Southeast Asia, Inokom's enhanced capabilities position it well to capture new opportunities and support the growth of the automotive industry in Malaysia and the region.